Penfield company sees itself as part of photonics future

JML Optical in Penfield is a big part of the future of Photonics in Rochester and the company has a head start on the technology (WHAM photo)

Penfield, N.Y. (WHAM) -JML Optical in Penfield is a big part of the future of Photonics in Rochester and the company has a head start on the technology.

They have been making precision lenses for 50 years and now use the science of optics and photonics to develop new technology.

They already have several contracts with the U.S. Defense Department. They make special lenses that fit inside a soldier's helmet so that can see what's ahead, and thermal imaging devices so they can see in the dark.

They also make cylindrical lenses for Hollywood which are used in motion picture cameras.

Heather Montana helps perfect the lenses once they are polished, ground, measured and sent to the clean room for final processing.

The room has its own air filtering system to prevent any dust or particles from contaminating the lenses.

JML Vice-President of Engineering K.C. Kamenecka says they take pride in their technology that helps keep soldiers safe, helps in the entertainment industry and is used to make cellphone cameras.

JML works with another local company, Optipro to create this new technology. They make machines which polish and grind the lenses.

Workers are credited for helping the company grow and add jobs and new products. They are dedicated and many have been there for years.

Geraldine Lynch was one of the founders of the company and still comes to work everyday even though she is 90 plus years old.

She is a lead optical designer and co-workers say she still loves what she does.